Abstract
This study examines the ion release rate from polyurethane based microcapsules formulated into orthodontic cement. The release of fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions promotes remineralization in the oral environment. Ion permeable microcapsules containing bioavailable fluoride, calcium, and phosphate aqueous salt solutions were formulated into both the primer and paste of the Dentsply® NeoBond© orthodontic adhesive system. The microcapsules were incorporated into both parts of the system to investigate the effect the continuous phase had on ion release. Furthermore, formulations were varied with both microcapsule identity, and w/w percentage loading of microcapsules. This was done to investigate the effect that the presence of multiple ions has on the apparent release rate. The objective of this research was to validate and quantify the release of bioavailable ions, in hopes of the development of a remineralizing orthodontic adhesive with the capability to combat white spot lesion development. The results of this study support that sustained release of fluoride, calcium, and phosphate from ion permeable microcapsules is achievable from both the primer and paste. An orthodontic adhesive with these capabilities could potentially stop the demineralization process and promote the remineralization process.